The Paper Manufacturers Association of South Africa has pledged its support of Nal’ibali’s two million target for World Read Aloud Day on February 5th, and offers five ways to make reading fun and engaging.

Not only does the Paper Manufacturers Association of South Africa (PAMSA) have a vested interest in all things paper, it is also a member of the South African Book Development Council which seeks to increase access to books, especially indigenous language and diverse content literature.

World Read Aloud Day, annually celebrated on the first Wednesday of February, advocates for access to literacy and diverse stories, as well as the power of reading aloud – an activity that has an immensely powerful impact on children’s development.

Each year Nal’ibali celebrates World Read Aloud Day by issuing a brand-new children’s story in all 11 official languages for caregivers across the country to read aloud to their children.

This year the campaign aims to read the story aloud to TWO MILLION children! You can sign your pledge to read aloud and download a copy of the official story here: https://nalibali.org/WRAD-2020.

Five ways to make World Read Aloud Day fun and engaging:

• Switch off your cellphone and dedicate 15 to 20 minutes reading to your little – even big – one. You’re never too old to be read to. You could even have your older children read to you! And it’s great practice for them.
• Choose the story together – scan the bookshelf or visit a library to find the book you want to read aloud together. Arrange a book swap with friends.
• Find a quiet, comfortable area to read together. Make a magic tent with a bed sheet and some cushions. Take away distractions such as toys or devices.
• Dramatise the story with different voices and accents. Get the kids to do the sound effects. Get older children who can read to participate and assign characters to them.
• Take your time. Don’t rush. And most of all, have fun!